Minnesota Lawmaker and Husband Killed in Apparent Politically Motivated Assassination
Brooklyn Park, MN – Minnesota is reeling today after State Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, were fatally shot in their Brooklyn Park home early Saturday morning. Governor Tim Walz has described the horrific incident as an “unspeakable tragedy” and a “politically motivated assassination.”
The devastating news comes as authorities also confirm that State Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, were shot and injured in a separate, but seemingly connected, attack at their home in Champlin. The Hoffmans are reportedly out of surgery and are “cautiously optimistic” they will survive.
Law enforcement agencies across the state have launched a massive manhunt for the suspect, described as a white male wearing black body armor over a blue shirt and blue pants. Authorities have issued a shelter-in-place order for a 3-mile radius around the Edinburgh USA golf course in Brooklyn Park, urging residents to remain indoors and to call 911 if they see the armed and dangerous suspect.
Disturbingly, officials revealed that the suspect is believed to have been impersonating a law enforcement officer, exploiting public trust to gain access to the victims’ homes. Police Chief Mark Bruley stated that the suspect’s vehicle “looked exactly like an SUV squad car” and was equipped with emergency lights. A “manifesto” listing targeted individuals, including lawmakers and public officials, was reportedly found in the suspect’s vehicle.
Representative Melissa Hortman, a Democrat, was a prominent figure in Minnesota politics, having served as the House Speaker from 2019 to 2025 and currently holding the position of House DFL leader. She was first elected in 2004 and was known for her sharp intelligence and ability to bridge divides. Senator John Hoffman, also a Democrat, was first elected in 2012 and serves as chair of the Senate’s Human Services Committee.
The attacks have sent shockwaves through the political community, with condolences pouring in from across the spectrum. Governor Walz emphasized, “Our state lost a great leader, and I lost the dearest of friends.” He added, “We must all, in Minnesota and across the country, stand against all forms of political violence.” U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar called it a “stunning act of violence,” while Republican House Speaker Lisa Demuth expressed being “heartbroken beyond words.”
The FBI has joined the ongoing investigation, working alongside state and local partners to apprehend the perpetrator. This tragic event underscores growing concerns about political violence and threats against elected officials nationwide. As the search continues, Minnesotans are urged to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement.
